How often have you purchased a new car, a new appliance, or a new power tool and skipped reading the owner’s manual? Let’s face it.. owner’s manuals are usually long, not easy to understand, and contain information we think we already know. Generally, many of us throw the document in a draw never to retrieve it again, unless or until we run into problems with the operation of product of purchase.

Did you know that we, as Catholics, have what can be considered an owner’s manual? It’s called the Catechism of the Catholic Church. And, yes, it’s long, some of it may not be easy to understand, and it contains information we think we already know. But, it contains so much more. If you want to know how to live a good Catholic life, the life we are called to live as followers of Christ, reading the Catechism is essential.

We are Catholic. We are called to live a holy, Catholic life. In order to do this we must read our owner’s manual, the Catechism of the Catholic Church. This book is a great companion to your Catholic bible. If you are not clear on the teachings of our faith, the first place to look is in the Catechism. It’s our Catholic owner’s manual.

Ponder: How often do you refer to the Catechism when you are faced with a moral dilemma or have questions about Church teachings on our faith?

Reflect: Mt. 28:18-20

Pray: Heavenly Father, help me to better understand the teachings of the Church entrusted to our care.